UK government dropped plan to prepare England for wildfires

The previous Conservative government under Rishi Sunak quietly dropped plans to run a wildfire risk programme in England from 2023 to 2027. The current government stated the commitment was never brought into effect. Environmental campaigner Guy Shrubsole obtained this information through a freedom of information request. Shrubsole called it appalling that the government ignored wildfire risks until Britain experienced severe fires this summer.

Equipment and Training Shortages

New data from the Country Land and Business Association shows that more than half of the 29 fire services that responded had no wildfire personal protective equipment. Suffolk fire and rescue service lacked proper gear while dealing with a wildfire near the Sizewell B nuclear power station. Standard respirators do not protect against carbon monoxide, and standard gear is often too hot and heavy. Training is also limited, with only five staff qualified in Cleveland and a small percentage trained in Cheshire.

Reactions and Demands

Alistair Carmichael, chair of the Commons environment food and rural affairs committee, questioned if summer wildfires could have looked different with more resources. Shrubsole called for re-wetting peat bogs, restoring lost ponds, and stopping moorland burning. The Fire Brigades Union wants proper equipment and training for all members. General secretary Steve Wright called for better land management, public awareness campaigns, and long-term prevention measures.

Context

Wildfires pose a growing threat during hot and dry summer months as climate conditions dry out rural land. Fire services require specific gear and specialized training to safely manage these fast-moving rural blazes compared to ordinary structural fires.